Bochinches

Rubén Blades' song 'Bochinches' is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of struggle, resilience, and social inequality. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life marked by hardship, starting with the story of a mother who worked tirelessly even while pregnant. This imagery underscores the relentless labor and sacrifice that often define the lives of the impoverished. The grandmother's remark, 'En la casa de los pobres hasta el feto trabaja,' highlights the generational cycle of poverty and the expectation that everyone, regardless of age or condition, must contribute to survival.

The song then shifts to a scene involving a black man invited to the mansion of a wealthy patron. This invitation is described as a desperate act, as the 'white and illustrious doctors' failed to cure the patron. The arrival of 'San Martín de Porres,' a reference to the Peruvian saint known for his healing abilities and compassion for the poor, symbolizes a turning to faith and traditional wisdom when conventional methods fail. This part of the song critiques the reliance on and eventual failure of the elite's solutions, highlighting the value and often overlooked contributions of marginalized communities.

In the final verse, Blades uses metaphors to describe a woman's life and love. Her virtue is likened to a taxi, available for a price, indicating the commodification of her body and the transactional nature of her relationships. The metaphor of her body as a 'road that caused many accidents' suggests the emotional and physical toll of her experiences. Her love, described as an 'orphan always seeking relatives,' poignantly captures the sense of longing and the search for belonging and connection. Through these vivid and evocative lyrics, Blades offers a powerful commentary on the human condition, social injustice, and the enduring spirit of those who navigate these challenges.